Weight Loss Solutions

Posted: Thu 23 Sep, 2010

So, when it comes to losing weight what is the answer?

We have been led to believe that to lose weight we have to do cardiovascular exercise and lots of it!  Well if that was the case, wouldn’t we see aerobic classes across the country filled with lean, strong and healthy bodies?  Unfortunately this is not the case and it is not uncommon to find the same people tirelessly going back week after the week only to find they have gained pounds - not lost them.

So why is this? 

Weight loss is not simply an equation of energy in vs energy out.  The body is a much more complicated system of systems where functioning optimally relies on maintaining balance between all of these systems.

In particular, the body’s ability to lose, gain or maintain weight can depend on the relationship between the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the hormonal system.  The ANS has several branches, two of which are the sympathetic and the parasympathetic.  Both of these branches are active at the same time but in a healthy person alternate dominance throughout the day.

If we spend too much time in a sympathetic state we are said to be “sympathetic dominant” and our bodies are constantly in a place of breaking things down (ie;muscle tissue).  If this is the case it proportionally reduces the time spent in a parasympathetic state and sacrifices the time spent on building things up (ie; new cells and lean muscle tissue). It is here where the body becomes less effective at burning fat and more likely to store it, especially around the abdominal region.

What brings about a sympathetic state?

Well, in today’s world just about everything from your restless night’s sleep, your early morning coffee kick, your frustrations at work, the food you had for dinner and even your aerobic class!

So how do you know if you’re sympathetic dominant?

Although it is possible to do hormonal testing, your symptoms can often be just as good indicators.  Look for things such as low energy levels, low libido, little or no results from the gym, inability to lose weight, increased anxiety levels or trouble sleeping.

What can you do about it?

In many cases the causes of sympathetic dominance can be addressed by specifically modifying diet, exercise and lifestyle factors, although further intervention may be necessary and is specific to the individual.

For more information or a complimentary consultation with one of our health consultants to discuss your specific case please call Levity health on (02) 93890278.

About the Author

Emily Bowie works in Personal Training and Lifestyle Coaching at Levity and specialises in strength and conditioning for surfers. For more information on this article or to make an appointment with Emily, contact Levity on (02) 9389 0278 or email Emily directly at emilyb@levityhealth.com.au.